Legendary Maurice White Dead At 74

Earth, Wind & Fire’s cofounder and vocalist, Maurice White, has passed away on February 3rd in his Los Angeles home, at the age of 74. The sad news of the passing of the member of the hugely popular RNB group was confirmed by Verdine White, Maurice’s brother and band-mate. White passed away peacefully, in his sleep.

“While the world has lost another great musician and legend, our family asks that our privacy is respected as we start what will be a very difficult and life changing transition in our lives,” Verdine White stated. He also thanked everyone for their prayers and well wishes.

The iconic musician has been battling Parkinson’s disease since 1992, which also forced him to stop touring with the legendary band in 1994. He officially announced that he was suffering from the disease in 2000, when being interviewed by Rolling Stone. White’s condition got worse over the course of the past few months.

Maurice White formed Earth, Wind, & Fire in the late 60’s, and co-composed the majority of the band’s biggest hits like “September,” “Let’s Groove,” and “Shining Star.” He won six Grammys with the band, and he was also introduced into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

The famous, beloved band is among the recipients of this year’s Grammy’s Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award.